Imran Tahir, the South Africa legspinner, has signed for Surrey for the entirety of this year's Vitality Blast.

Tahir, who has been named in his country's squad for the upcoming World Cup, becomes the club's second overseas signing for the 2019 competition, alongside the Australia limited-overs captain, Aaron Finch, who is returning for a fourth year.

He will join up with the Surrey squad at the completion of South Africa's World Cup campaign, in time for their opening match at Essex on Friday July 19.

"I'm always looking for new and exciting opportunities," said Tahir. "That's how I see the chance to play with one of the most talented playing groups in county cricket.

"When I heard Alec Stewart had asked after me, it was an easy decision. Surrey are a massive club and it will be great if I can contribute to helping them win another trophy this summer at the Kia Oval."

Tahir was the most successful bowler in this year's Indian Premier League; taking 26 wickets, the most in the competition, as his Chennai Super Kings ended runners-up.

Tahir has extensive experience in T20 cricket around the world, having also played in the Pakistan Super League, Caribbean Premier League, Mzansi Super League and Bangladesh Premier League, as well as six previous campaigns in the English domestic tournament.

He has represented South Africa at two World Cups and two T20 World Cups,rising to become the No.1-ranked T20 bowler in 2017, and currently has 63 wickets in 38 international T20 appearances.

Surrey Director of Cricket Alec Stewart said: "Imran is a proven match winner and with his vast experience of international, county and franchise cricket will be a huge asset to us."